(Arlington, Va.) – The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) CENTRAL FLORIDA CHAPTER has been named a 2016 Friends of Diversity Designation Chapter.

Every year, AFP, the largest association of professional fundraisers in the world, honors chapters for achieving goals that align with key objectives in its long-range strategic plan. Chapters receive the Friends of Diversity Designation for performing specific activities designed to increase diversity and inclusion within fundraising and public awareness of the importance of philanthropy. Of the 244 chapters in AFP, 76 chapters received the 2016 Friends of Diversity Designation.

Friends of Diversity Chapters are recognized at the AFP International Conference on Fundraising. Chapters also earn the privilege of displaying the Friends of Diversity logo on their website, newsletters and stationary.

“Congratulations to the AFP Central Florida Chapter for its outstanding work in promoting diversity and inclusion in fundraising and philanthropy,” said AFP Interim President & CEO Jason Lee. “It’s clear, now more than ever, that diversity and inclusion are essential not only to fundraising, but also to the communities that we serve. We need new ideas and perspectives to keep philanthropy strong and relevant, and reaching out to different populations ensures we bring everyone together and create a charitable mosaic reflective of our communities. I commend the AFP Central Florida Chapter for taking a leadership role in this critical area and educating the public about the importance of diversity, fundraising and philanthropy.”

Criteria for the award are determined by AFP International Headquarters. A list of several goals is published annually, and chapters must accomplish 7 of these goals during the year and submit a nomination form for verification to be honored.

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The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents over 33,000 members in 244 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs. The association fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession. For more information, visit www.afpnet.org.